By Alexz Yzerman
While it may be legendary in boxing circles, the name Mayweather is just starting to make waves in the world of mixed martial arts. As the next season of The Ultimate Fighter begins rolling, fans not already familiar with Jeff Mayweather’s involvement are sure to take notice now. As part of the highly controversial and exciting set of coaches assisting Roy Nelson and his team, Jeff is sure to get his share of attention in mma circles.
Jeff Mayweather has long been called “the quiet Mayweather” because of his failure to draw attention to himself and his low key, laid back approach. Of course this is the direct opposite of his more flamboyant siblings and nephew. However, it is Jeff who is starting to make noise, if not with his words, then with his actions.
Already a well respected and successful boxing trainer, he started to dabble in mma coaching when he began to work with King Mo Lawal. Word got out quickly and several mma fighters jumped at the opportunity to get some boxing training from him. Soon Vitor Belfort, Danny Castillo, TJ Dillashaw, and most notably, Roy Nelson also enlisted his services. Those fighters all enjoyed great success with Jeff as part of their team and when Nelson was named to coach the upcoming TUF, he brought Jeff along with him to serve as his boxing coach.
Alongside King Mo and Kurt Angle among others, Jeff is part of what promises to be the most controversial and exciting assistant coaches ever to serve the show. But while Mo and Kurt make headlines as much for what they do outside the cage as in it, it’s Jeff Mayweather that may ultimately prove to be the breakout star of the show.
As word rapidly spreads that the Mayweather’s are branching out, Jeff is finding himself the center of attention for once. And while he is not camera shy, it has to be a bit strange for Jeff to start fielding as many questions about himself as he does for Floyd Jr.
With Jeff finding growing success in mma, it’s likely he will become an increasing influence among fighters. Finally they are realizing the importance of stand up, and who better to work on it with than Jeff Mayweather? For once “the quiet Mayweather” is taking center stage.
